Virginia Beach Carjacking Attorney

In 1992, the federal government passed a series of laws to increase the penalties for certain types of armed robberies, including carjacking. Since that time, the majority of states have followed suit, now treating carjacking as a serious act of violence. Virginia, with some of the nation’s toughest laws in place, is certainly no exception. The state not only classifies carjacking as a felony, but also imposes severe penalties for committing the offense, including a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. If you are facing carjacking charges in Virginia, it is therefore in your best interest to contact an experienced Virginia Beach carjacking attorney immediately.

In the eyes of the law, a carjacking occurs when an individual uses or threatens force for the sole purpose of stealing a vehicle while it is occupied. While guns are used in many carjackings, a weapon is not required for such charges to be applied. In fact, any type of verbal or physical assault, including beating, striking, or intimidating the victim, can constitute a carjacking.

The penalties for carjacking vary from case to case, but as a felony crime, the courts take the offense quite seriously. For example, the minimum sentence a person convicted of carjacking can receive is 15 years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $100,000. Expect to have three to five years added on top of that sentence if a firearm or other deadly weapon was used during the carjacking. In cases where the offender forced the victim to drive to another location, kidnapping charges may also apply.

Fortunately, being charged with carjacking does not necessarily mean you will be convicted of the crime. As with any crime, the prosecution must prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and having a strong defense can quickly poke holes in the prosecution’s theories.

After more than a decade of experience in criminal law, attorney Michael C. Tillotson knows Virginia’s carjacking laws inside and out. In addition to his expertise, Mr. Tillotson has established an enviable reputation in the legal world, earning praise for his skill and legal strategies alike.

When you’re ready to fight your carjacking charges, contact Michael C. Tillotson immediately. After carefully evaluating the facts in your case, Mr. Tillotson will determine the best defense strategy for your situation. Whether you were falsely accused or incorrectly identified, Mr. Tillotson offers the aggressive representation you need during this complex legal battle. Contact Michael C. Tillotson today for a free, no-obligation consultation.